Meet Stacy Kwon
I’ve spent more than two decades building fresh food programs in the grocery industry. From humble beginnings managing a handful of stores, I led one of the largest sushi and fresh-food franchise operations in the country, growing from just a few locations to over 1000 nationwide.
My journey has always been about more than growth. It’s about creating opportunity and leading with respect. I believe every franchisee deserves a fair chance to thrive, build wealth, and take pride in meaningful work. That belief inspired me to start ElleLyons, a family of brands built on partnership, innovation, and integrity.
Today, through Lyons Fresh and Lyons Street Table, my team and I continue to build programs that bring quality, creativity, and consistency to grocery environments across the country, while empowering hardworking franchise owners to build better futures for themselves and their families.
Awards
2023 Most Admired CEO – Business Journal
2022 Top Franchise Award – Franchise Business Review
2020 Top Woman in Grocery Award
A Journey of Resilience
I was born in Seoul, South Korea, to a middle-income family with two older brothers. Life was ordinary and comfortable until my father’s business began to struggle, and my parents made the courageous decision to move to the United States.
At sixteen, we arrived in Houston, Texas, a city completely foreign to us. We spoke no English, had no friends, and no sense of what came next. My father found work running a small corner grocery store in 5th ward neighborhood, and our family lived in the storage room surrounded by boxes and supplies. It was a world away from the life we knew.
Those early years were hard. I still remember using a garden hose in the backyard at night to shower, unaware of the Texas fire ants that left scars on my legs for years. I became my parents’ translator, advocate, and protector—navigating everything from school forms to city permits. Overnight, I had to grow up. I became my parents’ parent.
Despite the fear and hardship, we persevered. We eventually moved to safer neighborhoods and built a better life. Beneath it all, I was transforming. I learned empathy, courage, and resilience, and gained a deep respect for immigrants who, like my family, risk everything in pursuit of a better future.
Contact
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.
123-456-7890